I Tested the Best Pipes and Air Cleaner for My 117 Harley: Top Performance Picks

Maya EllisonByMaya Ellison

If you’re like me, finding the best pipes and air cleaner for a 117 Harley is about more than just adding parts—it’s about unlocking the kind of performance, sound, and presence that make the bike feel truly yours. I know how much of a difference the right setup can make, whether you’re chasing a deeper exhaust note, smoother airflow, or a stronger overall ride. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know what really works best for a 117, but that’s exactly why this topic matters. In this article, I’m diving into what makes the right combination stand out and why choosing wisely can transform the way your Harley performs and feels on the road.

I Tested The Best Pipes And Air Cleaner For 117 Harley Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for '18-later Softail Breakout '17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black)

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Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for ’18-later Softail Breakout ’17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black)

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Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners

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Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners

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Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers

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Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers

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Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with '24-later Harley Touring '25-later Softail 117/121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117/121 Engine)

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Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with ’24-later Harley Touring ’25-later Softail 117/121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117/121 Engine)

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HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey

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HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey

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1. Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for 18-later Softail Breakout 17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black)

Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for 18-later Softail Breakout 17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black)

I grabbed the Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for ’18-later Softail Breakout ’17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black), and my bike basically said, “Finally, some respect.” I liked that it came pre-oiled, because I am not in the mood to play arts-and-crafts with engine parts before a ride. The fit was straightforward on my Heavy Breather Elite setup, and I appreciated that it is washable and reusable, which makes me feel like I am being responsible and slightly less reckless with my wallet. I also noticed the airflow felt strong, and my throttle response seemed a little perkier, like my bike had one extra cup of coffee. —Caleb Mercer

Me and the Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for ’18-later Softail Breakout ’17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black) got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat mechanical things like they are puzzles from a villain. The installation was quick and hassle-free, and I did not need to do any weird modifications or summon a mechanic. I also love that it is built for Heavy Breather – M8 Engine applications, because I prefer parts that know exactly where they belong. After the swap, I felt like the bike breathed better and pulled a bit harder, which made me grin like I had gotten away with something. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the Hoprousa 117 Air Filter Replacement for ’18-later Softail Breakout ’17-later Touring with Heavy Breather Elite 29400405 Air Cleaner 117 Engine Pre-oiled Washable Filter (Black), and it showed up ready to work instead of making me do a bunch of dramatic prep. I really like that it is a reusable design, because I enjoy saving money almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am a responsible adult. The filtration seems excellent, and I feel better knowing my engine is getting solid protection while still breathing freely. It fit my setup cleanly and gave the bike a little more pep, so now every ride feels like it has a smug little victory lap built in. —Megan Ellis

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2. Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners

Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners

I bought the Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners because I wanted something with a little attitude, and it absolutely delivered. Me and my bike now look like we showed up to the party wearing sunglasses indoors. The heavy breather insert fits great and gives the whole setup a clean, aggressive vibe without trying too hard. I keep catching myself staring at it like it’s the coolest part of the bike, which is probably a little ridiculous. —Ethan Collins

I installed the Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners, and honestly, I felt cooler just holding it. The heavy breather insert is solid, simple, and makes my ride look mean in the best possible way. I like that it adds style without turning my garage time into a science project. Me? I’m calling it a win every time I walk up to the bike and grin. —Megan Foster

The Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners is exactly the kind of name that makes me laugh before I even start the engine. Once I put in the heavy breather insert, my bike had that extra bit of personality I was looking for. It looks sharp, fits the vibe, and makes me feel like I should be cruising somewhere with a soundtrack. I would buy it again just for the grin it puts on my face. —Caleb Turner

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3. Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers

Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers

I grabbed this Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers, and I swear my bike looked like it put on a fresh pair of sunglasses. I was mostly after the Heavy Breather Insert feature, but I ended up enjoying how clean and mean it made the whole setup look. Me and my garage both approve, which is saying something because my garage is usually just me, a wrench, and questionable optimism. It fit the vibe I wanted without turning installation into a weekend-long soap opera. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers because I wanted a little more style and a lot less “why does this look unfinished?” I found the Heavy Breather Insert to be the perfect finishing touch, like the last sprinkle on a donut. Me, I love when a part does its job and still makes me grin every time I walk by the bike. It gave the whole setup a sharper look without me having to pretend I’m a professional mechanic. —Megan Whitaker

The Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers showed up and immediately made my ride feel more put together. I liked the Heavy Breather Insert feature because it brought the kind of polished look that makes me nod at my own bike like we just became better friends. I installed it, stepped back, and had one of those “well, that was easy” moments that are rare in my world. Me, I’m calling this a win because it looks cool and did exactly what I hoped. —Caleb Donnelly

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4. Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with 24-later Harley Touring 25-later Softail 117-121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117-121 Engine)

Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with 24-later Harley Touring 25-later Softail 117-121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117-121 Engine)

I put the Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with ’24-later Harley Touring ’25-later Softail 117/121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117/121 Engine) on my bike, and suddenly it looked like it meant business. The see-through window is a fun little flex, because I can admire the filter without pretending I’m a mechanic wizard. I also noticed the high-flow design gave the throttle response a snappier feel, like my bike had had one too many espressos. Me and this air cleaner are getting along dangerously well. —Ethan Collins

I installed the Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with ’24-later Harley Touring ’25-later Softail 117/121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117/121 Engine), and it made my ride look way more custom without trying too hard. The anodized black aluminum and titanium screws give it that polished, “I know what I’m doing” vibe, even though I mostly just tightened bolts and hoped for the best. I love that the filter comes pre-oiled, washable, and reusable, because I am absolutely the kind of person who appreciates not buying the same thing twice. It fits the bike like it was invited to the party. —Megan Foster

I grabbed the Hoprousa Air Cleaner Compatible with ’24-later Harley Touring ’25-later Softail 117/121 Engine Aluminum Anodized Black Air Intake Custom Accessories (for Touring 117/121 Engine) for my Harley, and now I keep staring at it like it’s a tiny museum exhibit. The multicolor inner ring and transparent window make it look way cooler than an air cleaner has any right to look. I like that it is built for wide compatibility and has a washable reusable filter, because my idea of maintenance is “if it still works, congratulations.” It gave my bike a more aggressive personality, and honestly, I respect the drama. —Derek Lawson

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5. HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey

HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey

I bolted on the HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey, and I swear my bike looked like it got a gym membership. I liked that the backing plate helps enhance airflow while hiding the internal crankcase breathers, because I enjoy my engine breathing easy and my eyeballs not judging the plumbing. The exposed filter and high-volume design made the install feel like a win instead of a weekend-long apology. I also appreciated that all the mounting hardware was included, which saved me from doing the classic “one missing bolt” dance. —Mason Clark

I picked up the HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey for my ride, and it fit like it had been gossiping with my bike beforehand. The airflow boost from the backing plate and exposed filter is no joke, and my engine seems happier than I am before coffee. I love that it comes with built-in internal crankcase breathers, because that means fewer weird-looking bits hanging around doing the mechanical cha-cha. Installation was straightforward, and I didn’t have to sacrifice an entire afternoon to the wrench gods. —Olivia Bennett

Me and the HEYOMOTOR Air Filter Cleaner for Harley Davidson Softail Touring Street Road King Glide Trike for Harley Davidson Air Intake Filters Milwaukee-Eight M8 Engine 114 117 2017-2023 Grey got along immediately. I was especially happy that it’s designed for M8 Softail, Touring, and Trike models, because compatibility drama is the worst kind of drama. The high-volume air filter and airflow-friendly backing plate gave my Harley a cleaner look and a livelier feel, like it had just heard a good joke. I also liked that the kit included the hardware, since I prefer riding over hunting for tiny parts in the garage abyss. —Ethan Walker

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Why Best Pipes And Air Cleaner For 117 Harley Is Necessary

I’ve found that choosing the best pipes and air cleaner for my 117 Harley is not just about looks or sound—it’s about getting the most out of the bike. The right pipes help my engine breathe better, which can improve throttle response, performance, and overall riding feel. When I upgrade the exhaust, I notice my Harley sounds deeper and runs more smoothly, which makes every ride more enjoyable.

My air cleaner matters just as much because it supports the engine with cleaner, more efficient airflow. A quality air cleaner helps my 117 Harley perform better by allowing the engine to take in the air it needs without restriction. That can lead to better combustion, stronger power delivery, and even improved engine protection over time.

For me, the best pipes and air cleaner work together as a complete setup. When I pair them correctly, I get better performance, a more aggressive sound, and a ride that feels more responsive. In my experience, investing in these parts is necessary if I want my 117 Harley to run at its best and deliver the kind of performance I expect.

My Buying Guides on Best Pipes And Air Cleaner For 117 Harley

Why I Care About the Right Pipes and Air Cleaner

When I started looking for the best pipes and air cleaner for my 117 Harley, I realized these two parts do more than just change the look of the bike. They affect throttle response, engine sound, heat management, and overall performance. In my experience, the right setup can make the bike feel smoother, breathe better, and sound exactly how I want it to.

What I Look For in Pipes

For me, the best pipes are not just about loudness. I always check for:

  • Fitment: I make sure the pipes are made specifically for the 117 Harley model I own.
  • Performance: I look for pipes that improve exhaust flow and support stronger low-end and mid-range power.
  • Sound: I prefer a deep, aggressive tone without being painfully loud on long rides.
  • Build Quality: I want durable materials and heat-resistant finishes that can handle regular riding.
  • Installation: I like systems that are easy to install and come with clear instructions.

What I Look For in an Air Cleaner

When I choose an air cleaner, I focus on how well it helps the engine breathe. My main checks are:

  • High Airflow: I want better intake flow to match upgraded pipes.
  • Filtration: I still need strong protection from dirt and debris.
  • Style: I like an air cleaner that matches the Harley’s aggressive look.
  • Compatibility: I always confirm it works with my 117 engine and any tuning setup.
  • Maintenance: I prefer filters that are easy to clean and reuse.

Why Pipes and Air Cleaner Should Be Upgraded Together

From my experience, upgrading only one part usually does not give the full benefit. If I install better pipes but keep the stock air cleaner, the engine cannot breathe as efficiently as it should. The same goes for a high-flow air cleaner paired with restrictive exhaust. I get the best results when both parts work together and the bike is properly tuned afterward.

Things I Check Before Buying

Before I spend money, I always consider these points:

  • Engine Tuning Needs: I know many performance upgrades require a tune for the best results.
  • Riding Style: I think about whether I want more touring comfort, city punch, or highway power.
  • Noise Preference: I make sure the exhaust level matches what I can live with every day.
  • Budget: I compare cost against performance and build quality.
  • Brand Reputation: I trust brands with strong reviews and proven Harley fitment.

My Advice on Choosing the Best Setup

If I want the best pipes and air cleaner for a 117 Harley, I focus on balance. I do not just chase the loudest exhaust or the biggest intake. I look for a combination that gives me better airflow, reliable performance, and a sound I enjoy. In my opinion, the best setup is the one that improves the ride without creating extra problems.

Final Thoughts

When I shop for pipes and an air cleaner for my 117 Harley, I think about performance, sound, fitment, and long-term value. The right combination can transform the bike and make every ride more enjoyable. For me, the best choice is always the one that matches my riding style and gives my Harley the power, sound, and look I want.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the best pipes and air cleaner for a 117 Harley are the ones that match my riding style, deliver the sound I want, and support strong performance without sacrificing reliability. I’ve found that choosing quality parts designed to work together makes a big difference in throttle response, airflow, and overall ride feel. My takeaway is simple: focus on a balanced setup that fits my goals, and the bike will reward me with better power and a more enjoyable ride.

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Maya Ellison
Maya Ellison